BEING PART OF AN AUDIENCE-Head Of Spetsnaz Nikolai Dimitri(Krishin)

A being a good audience member means sitting down quietly, not talking over others and applauding.

I have coped quite badly with sitting. I really have got to the bottom of the problem. SITTING IS BORING.  I think we really need much more comfortable seating, some cusions or maybe a couch. I think we should have call airhorn for crowd control (what do you think).  http://www.instantrapairhorn.com/. I feel I have been coping okay with the constant sitting. Oh and maybe fine wines menu just in case.

Being Part of an Audience-Tom A

I don't mind being part of an audience, especially in Indy Studies where you can ask questions. The problem with the recent speech semis and finals is that we have to sit on the floor for over an hour with little room to move.

Being a Good Audience - William

If you are a good audience member, then you are well on your way to being a good human being, and actions speak louder than words ever will. In the past couple of weeks we have had ample time to show off whether or not we are good or bad audience members. In my opinion, a good audience member listens when it is time to listen. Speaks when it time to speak, and probably most important of all, stops when it is time to stop. Minus perhaps the last one, at times, I think that I have, on the whole, to an extent, fulfilled my obligations as an audience member. Probably the most amazing thing I've experienced as an audience was Tom H's speech, as it was pretty good.

Being part of an audience- An-ge-se

I think that a good audience member listens well but also so contributes when it's beneficial. I think so far I've done quite well but starting to break down. I think I am calling out a bit when I shouldn't be. Contribute when necessary. The most interesting experience so far was Hugo's presentation. I think the most captivating though was William's speech.

I Hate Being an Audience Member - Han Solo (Greatest Fighter)

Good afternoon Mr Tait. I think a good presentation is one that last 0.1 seconds because i am a very spastic boy and sitting down for a long time is very hard for me. On a serious note I think a good presentation is long but keeps you interested the whole time. I think I  could have coped better and been more quiet. I would change the seating arrangement so it is easier to see the board. My most memorable moment from being an  audience member was WHEN I WON LOLLIES FROM A QUIZ!!!!!!!

Being part of the watchers -_- TimTamDaMa

I think that ears make a very good audience for speeches **cough cough Pat** . I think personally I have coped pretty well with sitting around but some people I think could do a lot better. I think I need to work on shifting my position less when sitting around on hard floor. I would change what we sit on. Other than concrete and wood. The most captivating thing would be when Jack did his speech. It was just so Hillaryous.

Pat G-being an audience

A good Audience member is someone who listens to what another person has to say both at home and abroad, and if you show good listening to some one it is likely that they will listen to you when you are trying to tell them about something. This is quite topical to the quote mentioned at the end of my speech "you have two ears and one mouth so that you can listen twice as much as you speak". However as there are many presentations and speeches etc. at the moment people are losing patience,and every now and I believe it would help to have a consequence ready to keep everyone In line eg no pavilion lunch for year eights or lines. I am really enjoying school and am looking forward to all the experiences to come during the rest of this year.

FelixR - being part of an audience

I think the things that make a good presentation, speech, assembly and chapel is the intro, ending and expression. Like maya angelou said “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” I think this is a good example of what you should be aiming for in speeches, presentations, assemblies and chapels. On a scale of one to ten in they way I have listened, I would go I've myself a 8. I have survived well while listening but there has been a couple of "slip-ups" that nearly cost me my life. I need to improve not being distracted and not talking to my niebours. The most memorable listening moment was probably the semi-final speeches.

Being Part of an Audience - Judd

I think that a good audience member has to listen to the speaker, ask questions when appropriate and be respectful of who is speaking. The thing about the presentations that has captivated me the most has been the information that has been gathered and compiled. For me as an audience member it is very important to be respectful for the work that has gone into compiling and presenting a year's work. I think that I have been listening and paying attention relatively well in the audience because as a year eight I know how hard it is to stand in front of our class for an hour.

Part of Being An Audience - MOD Mikhail Timofeyevich Kalashnikov (aka Jake B)

Over the last few weeks we have done a butt load of sitting (pun intended) and being an audience is important. One of the main things i remember when i'm in a audience is all these people will be in your audience at some time. When you are an audience member you must be quiet and try not to distract whoever is presenting or on stage. I have copped with the sitting very well even thought it may be a pain in the arse (once again pun intended) especially the long periods like independent study presentations. I think I need to stop fiddling with things (like sawing pens in half) during independent studies. If I had to make being a audience member better I would add massage chairs for them to sit on so they would fidget or move around.

Goodbye and Remember HAN SOLO GREATEST FIGHTER

Being Part of an Audience - Matt

Good afternoon Mr. Tait. I coped fairly well with being an audience member but at times I ended up getting bored and stopping paying attention to what the speaker is saying. Some of the most interesting and memorable audience experiences have been listening to some of the humorous speeches.

Being Part of an Audience - Tom B

To make a good audience you need to be quite while another person is speaking. A quote from all of the teachers in the school. Also when someone asks a question only the person that was being asked should answer not everyone just yelling out random things that have a little bit of relevance to the question. To make being an audience member better we should make it that yes we can still have a bit of fun but we need to "get our act together" so that the other audience members can hear what the person up the front is actually saying.

Overall I definitely think that we could improve on how we are at them moment as audience members.

Being Part of an Audience - Atharva

I think a 'good good' audience member would have to be considerate and aware about what they might say, and ask themselves if it is the right moment to talk and how it might affect the occasion. Also, asking proper and serious questions is good. I think myself of a brilliant audience member, although other boys may 'crossed the line' a few times in the past, such as my presentation.

Being part of an audience

What makes a good good one? You have to respect and listen to the speaker. Well, my bum is starting to hurt from the amount of sitting down we have been doing, I think I've done pretty well. Um, well we need chairs with cushions and then it would be great. I feel that the speech final was the best experience, as the speeches were interesting and the suspense kept on building up.

Being Part of an Audience-Vladimir Demitrenkov (Hugo)

Good afternoon Mr Tait, personally, I think that I have not been that bad of an audience member but I think that I could definitely work on my audience skills. I personally give a little message to yr 7's who constantly call out; YOU HAVEN'T DONE IT YET, IT IS MUCH HARDER THAN YOU THINK. Overall the whole system of independent studies is a fun entertaining one but can get very very out of hand if the audience is annoying/talks/doesn't listen. I would also like to finish with a quote: 

The Quote

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/6-steps-being-good-audience-member-opdyke-carroll-pe-leed-ap-bd-c

Being Part of an Audience - Anish

I think I have done well of being an audience for speeches and presentations, but others have been a bit over the top. It is easy for speeches as it is 3 to 5 minutes long but the presentations are the hardest part as it goes from half an hour to an hour and for some people it is hard to sit for that long.

Being part of an audience - Noah

Good afternoon Mr Tait, I think that being a good audience member  means you need to be quiet and listen to what the people talking are saying. I think that I have done this quite well but sometimes I could have been a better audience member. 

Audience-Lucca H

I think I've coped well as an audience member well most of the time but I do need improving towards the end of things.  Eventually I get bored or distracted and I think I can be a better audience member but most of the time I think I'm good. I enjoy the people who give out lollie, the people who are funny but most of all, the people that keep you involved. Instead of drifting off and talking about boring stuff.

Being part of an Audience - Mr T

Good afternoon boys.  Over the last few weeks you have had many opportunities to be an audience member...speeches, presentations, assemblies, chapels etc.  What makes a good good one?  How well do you think you have coped with sitting and (mainly) listening to your fellow pupils, other staff etc? What do you need to improve?  What would you change to make being an audience member a better experience?  What has been the most memorable audience experience for you?  What has captivated you the most?

The Home Stretch - Finbar

My top priority this term is independent study with speech being the next highest priority. The thing I am looking forward to most this term is finishing my independent study I think this because finishing something you have spent a whole year on is very satisfying. I think I am just starting to click. My main question about the west coast trip is what is the highlight for most people. If I was principal I would first make the school pool bigger and also make certain subjects such as P.A and art optional.

The Home Stretch - Matt

Good morning Mr T. Surely it's more than 41? surely, surely, surely? My priorities are absolutely terrible. I'm looking forward to you telling me that it's just a joke and that we have more time.

THE HOMEE STRRRRRAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIT- KCOX

PRIORITY:::: INDEPENDANT STUDY. I am really looking forward to the Y8 indep studies. I think in half a week i will fully click with the size of the work. I have no idea about the west coast trip so my questions are mainly. WHAT ON EARTH DO WE DO????  Even so I can't wait for the west coast trip it is going to be very exciting and I do hope have good weather conditions. If I was given one year as the principal of wellesley. I would first make chapel non compulsory. We may be an anglican school BUT in this country we have a RIGHT TO PRACTISE WHAT EVER WE WISH.

DRAFT

Prime Minister Patricia-Home stretch

I am really enjoying school at the moment. My priorities are my booklet for Independant study and my speech. I plan to work extremely hard before and after the West Cost trip so that I can feel proud of my work at the end of the year. If I was the principle of Wellesley college for a year I would put a deep end into the school pool so that every body including the seniors would be able to swim in it. I would also put next to the feald a shop full of refreshments, sort of like the canteen but down by the feald. I am exremely busy but very happy as well and I look forward to the days to come!

The Home Stretch - Anish

My priorities for this term is to have a great presentation and booklet. As I'm looking forward to more wharf jumping. I have been waiting for ages for my presentation. I have already clicked into the work and nearly finished with my speech and booklet to go. I think I've already learnt how hard the work. If I was the the principal I would no major changes and since I am gone after two months I don't really mind about any of the rules

The Home Strait - Jake Breslin

My priorities for term four are my independent study and speech. Obviously my independent study take priority as it is a massive project that needs to be finished.
I am really looking toward to the Year 7 camp but still have to raise a little more money to get there. I definitely have clicked with the amount of work left and the time frame diminishing by the second. If I were principal of Wellesley I would make learning to code and technology a much more prominent part of the curriculum and I would make chapel optional.

The End

The Home Stretch - Noah

This year has gone really quickly for me. It has gone much quicker than last year and we only have 41 days left which is not long at all. Although I am looking forward to the end of school I still have stuff I need to do. This term my main priorities are to get my Independent study done soon and get my speech over and done with. If I was the principal of Wellesley for a year I would probably keep it the same but I would change some things like: make sure that the pool is filled in summer and have a P.E. Shed where you can get balls at lunchtime. 

The Home Stretch-Lucca

My two priorities are my speech and my independent study presentation. I'm not fully focused on the booklet because its due in way later because I'm presenting in probably week five before west coast. Then I'll have three or four weeks to focus on my booklet. I'm oozing forward to the holidays and a fresh start next year. I'll probably click when it's a week or two before my presentation or speech if not I've already clicked. Yes, I want this year to be remembered as a fun but busy year that I enjoyed. If I were principal I would make some events and subjects optional but it is good to try new things. But I personally think chapel should be optional because some families don't believe in god, same with athletics, some people don't want to go down to the field all day, do two races or events that you don't enjoy and the go back to class sunburned.

The Home Stretch - Felix

My first priority this term is to finish my Independent study presentation. The thing that I am most looking forward to is the mighty, fun and adventurous West Coast trip like most year sevens. I think I clicked the second day back at school. I do not have many questions about the mighty West Coast trip and I think I will just go with time flow. I would like to remember the last term as hardworking and fun. I would increase the number of wharf jumps because I feel a lot more open minded after a wharf jump on a hot day.

My Stretching Homies - TimTam

My priority for this term would definately be my Independent Study and possibly speech. The thing I am looking forward to is seeing what my score for Independent Study is. To be honest I think I have already clicked about the work that needs to be done. My one question for the West Coast trip is; do we get to keep the gold we pan up? Yes I know... I want to be remembered for just being That Guy. Yes. That Guy. If I was given the principals role I would decrease the amount of things that last about an hour so children don't get bored. Dank you. Dank you very much.

The Home Stretch-Hugogo

Good morning Mr T, I have 41 days of school left in 2016. the fourth term is, as you know, very busy for me. My priorities for this term is Independent study booklet and presentation. i am most looking forward to hearing some of the other independent studies. I think that I will click very soon, I am doing my presentation in a week and I am not very worried. I am thinking about the obligations that pepper term 4. I want to be remembered for having a good independent study and for being a good house captain. (french cup would also be nice) If I was the principal I wouldn't change much, apart from giving everyone int he senior syndicate a week of study leave at the end of term 3.

The Home Stretch-Tom A

My priorities for this year are getting my booklet on the shelf and my presentation done. I am also looking forward to these two things being done the most as well. I think that I have already clicked and have pulled my finger out and buckled down, sort of. Although I am in a better position than I was in this  time last year it is still not as good as I would have liked. With only 41 more days as a Wellesley boy I hope that I will make it to prize giving unscathed.

The Home Stretch- Goosey A

I think that what I'm really working this term is doing well in both speech and independent study. I am really looking forward to going on the west-coast camp. I probably 'clicked' during the holidays before this term when I realised that independent study and my speech were going to be very big this term. I don't have any questions about the mighty west coast trip, I'm just going to go with the flow. I want to be remembered as a caring, energetic and happy person. I don't know what I would change as the principle, I like Wellesley college as it is.    

The Home Stretch - Tom B

This term I want to get the first draft of my booklet in before we go on our West Coast Trip. I am really looking forward to presenting my presentation and I'm also looking forward to going on the West Coast trip. I think that I have just recently clicked about how much work I have to do and how little time I have to do it all. I would really like to know what the ferry ride to the West Coast is like. If I were the principal at Wellesley College for a year I would get rid of speeches, personally I really don't like speeches and they get in the way of of lots of other work, for us independent study.

The Home Stretch - William

The last 41 days of my life as a Wellesley College pupil are here, and the end of the year is rapidly approaching. My Independent Study looms as a big commitment for this term, but smaller things on the side such as speech and sports fixtures will keep me on my toes. I am rubbing my hands with glee and anticipation at the prospect of presenting my I.S on The Watergate Scandal to the class. About 9.05am on the first day back at school, it clicked as to how rapidly fast things were coming up, but I am confident I can achieve them, as I have already accumulated 269 runs on the board. I know that I am not out and hopefully, this tally keeps growing until we reach the fateful day they call 'Prize giving.' Hopefully I am remembered for the genius that I am... I mean as a kind humble fellow going about his daily business. If I were principal for a year at Wellesley, I would resign immediately, and go and make millions at Wall Street instead.

The Home Stretch

I feel that my priorities are I.S. and Speech. My I.S. will be the one I am most looking forward. I feel i have clicked already, although not all the time. Well, about the west coast, my cousin went there and my aunt said he was sick until Thursday. Does that usually happen? i don't know what I want to be remembered as. To be fair, this year has been great, I wouldn't change a thing.

The Home Stretch - James

In my last 41 days at Wellesley I wish to have as much fun as possible. If I was the Principle at Wellesley I would reintroduce POP back into Wellesley I would also clear the Inner Quad and make a huge cricket feild and with quality grass pitches. I would make a club for people who wish to learn how to look after a field. It has clicked to me the massive workload that I have. My priority is to finish my I.S to a very high standard. I am very excited for all of the cricket coming up

The Home Stretch_ArchieC

My priority is pretty much just to do well on my Independent Study and kind of my speech. It kinda clicked about on Monday that my Indie was due in next week and I was only like half way but now I'm a lot closer which is good. I don't really have many questions about the extra obligations. If I was principal I would make the cricket pitch better so it resembles a cricket pitch not a bomb site. We also need to bring back POP.

The Home Stretch - Mr T

Good morning boys.  You have 41 school days left in 2016.  The fourth term is, as you know, very busy for you.  What are your priorities for this term?  What are you most looking forward to?  When do you think you will 'click' about the heavy workload and the rapidly diminishing timeframe? Or...have you already clicked?  Year 7s... what questions do you have about the mighty West Coast trip?  Year 8s... what questions do you have about the extra Yr 8 obligations that pepper the last term? How do you want to be remembered for the final term in what has been a very good year?  If you were given a year in the role of principal at Wellesley College, what changes would you introduce and why?

Three Big Things- Angoose A

It was an awesome production and I think that it was 4.5 out of 5. I think that I played my part really well and provided a good backing for almost our entire show. I was definitely worth it and I really enjoyed my the show. I think the most interesting thing was seeing how the different crowds reacted.
Debating is so much fun, I love it. Although I don't think I will make a debating team at college, why, because I wasn't scored very well. I think planning was a really important thing for the debate. I thought I did well but I was given very low marks. I think preparing and working as a team is super important.
I am currently doing my first draft for my speech. I think as well as presenting my speech well I also need to write it well as well. I am really pumped to get into the next round and progress as far as I can. I think that Judd's speech will be the best because he is a very good speaker.
I think that after the holidays with the amount I've done and can get done I will be well prepared to give my presentation to the class. I am quite exited to see some of the Year 8's presentations and see how they are done. I think that in the holidays I will need to do a bit of work. I happy to have chose this topic because I have found it very interesting.    

Four Big Things

I would rate the production a 7/10 I contributed not much but I was an extra showgirl and a panama flash mob. I did not really enjoy production because I spent %80 percent of it sitting doing nothing I did not learn anything from it. I will definitely do debating in College as I really enjoyed debating. The best weapon in a debaters arsenal is research and improv. I did quite well in my opinion. I am writing my first draft speech. I have finished 5 tasks on my task list and have 17 more.

THREE BIG THINGS- FEDERATION OF KRISHANIA

I would rate the entire production 11/10, we should perform in a theatre in central wellington. The security guard is really good, you get to be on stage but you don't have to remember lines. The production was well worth the time and effort and was extremely exciting.

Debating was the greatest day ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT RIOT

MORE DEBATING NOW NOW NOW NOW NOW NOW NOW NOW

I will definitely be debating ast college, I can't wait for it. The best weapon in a debaters arsenal is organization. William C was very organized and so his team were very effective he delivered his points in order and defeated his opponents. Preparation is extremely important. With a total of 50 points available it is very important.

Speech:
I feel that I have a few runs on the board but not that many. I will put a lot of emphasis on the writing.

I hope I can present acceptably and I think that the YR8s will be very interesting

THREE BIG THINGS! Ben_M

Last nights production was amazing. I rate it 9/10. I was only a bodyguard but just doing that was great. It was awesome to be there. In my opinion all the time we spent preparing and doing rehearsals was definitely worth it. I also really enjoyed debating yesterday and I am pleased with the result. I don't know what I would have done if I hadn't prepared and I think that teamwork was very helpful during the debate. Overall I think I did well. I got second best speaker and am pleased with my debating speech. As for I.S. I feel a bit nervous but positive I will be done in time. I will definitely need to do some work over the holidays but should be done in time.

Some Massive Things - Luke S

My main concern is independent study, as I am first in the queue for presentations, and I still need to prepare for this more than I have already done so, and practice it a couple of times. My next concern is my workload for today. I've got to finish my speech and get my WNB on the shelf, and that's a rather large workload for the amount of time I have. After that, debating. I feel as though debating yesterday went very well, considering that I didn't write a single thing before the time I sat down. The entire thing was on-the-spot rebuttal.

Four Big Things - Anish

As I was a customer for Peter Jackson I didn't have much lines in the production. In debating I was the second speaker and did most of the points. My speech I have done my first draft and  my topic is the valley of the kings. My Independent Study is on  Tutankhamen and I have learned a lot about him this year and in 3 weeks I will present my work.

Four Big Things-Gray

well, i really thought that our script was really good. the performance was pretty good and i generally enjoyed it. but we need air conditioning back there. it's boiling. 8/10, so pretty good. I really think that debating could become something in my armoury. its good fun. i thought i did pretty well but the evil Awhatitwhatis doesn't get humour. prep is the most important thing in my option. I think i'm doing quite well in speech as i have my first draft in. I'm a bit nervous about. I.S. that now seems really close. I know that I will have to do a bit in the hols but not to much. my topic has grown on me heaps more. I'm nervous and excited about presentation.

4 Big Things James

I remember last year it was about now when I realised that I had done nothing. This year I am still nervous but a different type of nervous. Last year I was worried I would not finish. This year there is an added pressure because I am a year 8. When your are a year 7 it's a lot easier because its your first time. overall I am very excited to see everyones speech and IS.

Three Big Things

Good morning Mr Tait. I enjoyed the production because I was able to play a major part in it without anyone seeing me. I don't really enjoy debating. I also didn't do very well in it and didn't have many arguments because I didn't prepare anything. I haven't done a huge amount on speech but I have some really good ideas. I am looking forwards to getting my independent study over with.

Completely unrelated titles (Four Big Things) - Ned

uh ok so

I would rate the production a solid 7 and 15/135ths. It was pretty good and better then last night but I thought some of the transitions weren't as good as before. Although I did enjoy running around behind stage and doing things.

My overall impression on debating was that, first off, why did I have to miss the DEBATING BLOG. I could've reinstated Debit Card Bating, but alas, 'twas the pilgrimage. Although I did like the debating part and I got third even though I got the lowest marks. I consulted james about this and he said "it's your aura" which makes a lot of sense.

And finally, speech.

My topic is "DANGERS OF THE OUTSIDE" which is very relevant for someone who does absolutely nothing but stay inside and cry myself to sleep every night, because that is literally how I function outside of school. I'm lying. I think.

so uh thanks

bye,!!.,!,!,!?!?!?!!?!??!?!?!?!

Doors are big things- Tim

If I were to rate the production I would give it an 8/10 because of how well we managed to act and sing. The way I contibuted was in my character (Robin Banks) as I had a very good time playing him. To be honest I loved the experience of the production and I wish I could do it next year. I think it was worth the time and effort it took. I would love to do debating at college because I like arguing. The most important weapon is the other teams mistakes. I think I didn't do too badly to be honest. I'm not really looking forward to speech because I think that I won't do very well as I just can't get a point through to someone easily. Unfortunately I will have to do it next year. I think I am around average with Independent Study and I think I will work a lot during the holidays.

Four Big Things - Atharva

I think I would rate our production a 9/10, as it was amazing. I think it was worth it to go there. I was in the Rubik's Cube dance, and I felt really happy when we got the three by three square write. I think the most interesting part of the production was hearing my parents' feedback, and they said it was amazing. It really shows how much our hard work has paid off. For debating, I really liked being the third speaker, because I had lots of rebuttal to write down. When it was my turn to speak, I was really excited. I think that preparation and teamwork counts for a lot points when marking.

Four Big Things - Felix

I rated the production very highly and I am very happy with effort of all the kids how contributed. I contributed to the production by being a human buzzer and a Rubik's cube dancer both of these were really fun and Tim and I changed it up a bit. It was really really fun and I reckon the audience enjoyed it a lot according to the feedback I got from my parents and sister. I would really like to do debating in College. I really enjoyed it and I think my team really enjoyed it as well. I think I am doing really well in my speech I have got my first runs on the board as Mr Tait says. I'm really looking forward to hearing Lucca's speech I reckon it's going to be really funny. I'm really looking forward to the year eights Independant study and hopefully learn a lot.

Big Things-Lucca

I would rate production very highly because it was really enjoyable and I got to wear make up. I looked horrible but the make up actually felt really nice. Now I understand why girls wear make up.
I don't think I'll do debating at college but I really enjoyed watching other people debate (especially William and Gray). I am up to my second draft with my speech but I don't really want to do it. I find it boring and a bit useless and when I come to do it I get really nervous, kind of like stage fright. I have almost finished my solo and I am putting it on to one document and I have started my PowerPoint. I can't wait till my booklet is on the shelf. The year has gone so fast and finally we are near presenting.

Three Big Things - William

Last night the Senior Syndicate performed their production for the second time. I enjoyed it, even though I didn't have a very big part. I would like to say I contributed with my spectacular dance moves; but I didn't. I thought that all the productions were very good, at times witty, at times serious and they all got the audience involved, which was great. Yesterday we had debating, which I enjoyed immensely, and, hopefully I will take up debating at college. I think that most important weapon in a good debaters armoury is the ability to think on their feet, be witty, tongue in cheek and not too serious. Our debate went quite well and we came away with a win which was good. I was relatively pleased with my own performance, even though my rebuttal was below par. In regard to speech, I would say that I have started by pushing singles, not smashing boundaries, but, nevertheless, I have accumulated some runs on the board. My topic is "Democracy", and hopefully my last speech at Wellesley will be a good one. And last, but definitely not least, Independent Study. The Watergate Scandal is ticking along nicely, and closer to the end of year it will start to take shape into what will hopefully be a good Independent Study.

Four Big Things - Tom B

I think that the production actually went pretty well. I am still kind of amazed that the Rubix Cube boys completed the side two times in a row. I do think that the last night was better than the first because there weren't as many mistakes because people were used to doing it in front of such a big audience. I don't think that I will end up doing debating a college. I do enjoy it it's just that i'm not very good at it. On my speech I have just finished my first draft and have lots of ideas to add to it. At the moment I feel pretty comfortable with it. It has just sunk in that it is so close to seeing the first year eight presentation in just three weeks. I think that each week in the holidays I will do two to three sections in my booklet and five or so slides on my presentation.

Three Big Things-Tom A

For the production I was a Rubik's Cube Dancer as well as playing bass for the security guards dance and at the end before Eye of the Tiger. The nights we performed were great but I am glad it is over. For debating i was the third speaker and had a great time. I think that a debaters best weapons is preparation and the ability to think on your feet. As for my speech I am going well and got my first draft in to Mr Tait several days a go. So far my speech is about 1:45 min. As for Independent Study, I have started my presentation and and am gong well on my booklet.

The FIVE big things-Hugo

The production was really fun. I quite liked it and I think I did pretty well. I think all of the work was all worth it because we only really had 1 fail in each production. The production was really really fun and overall I really enjoyed it.

 In debating I also really enjoyed it. I think that the main tools for a debater is, good rebuttal, good statements, being correct and confidence. A confident speaker with a strong voice would be able to beat a nervous person with very good points. Also it does require lot's of preparation to do a good debate.

Speeches aren't very fun. I simply don't like speeches. (Even though I'm a house captain) But still it's alright when you are on stage. I think the hardest bit about speeches are getting a good topic. I have chosen sumo wrestling as my topic and I am quite happy about it.

WNB is going alright. My trip to Japan has set me behind but I still think I won't be last to get published. If Mr Tait does supersonic proofreading I should be able to be shelved today. My title page is quite normal seeing as I didn't have much time to prepare. It is still going quite well and I hope to get WNB of the year.

Independent Study is also going quite well. I need to go spam crazy with my presentation and just make it good. I would say I am about right or maybe a bit ahead but I still need to do quite a lot of work. I also want to compare how the scores have either raised or lowered as time goes on.

Three Big Things - Noah

I think that our production was actually quite good. I thought at the start it was going to be horrible but it turned out really well. Since I was one of the rubik's dancers, I didn't really contribute much but I didn't mind having that role. I liked doing debating but I didn't do very well. I think that I might try debating at college but I'm not really sure about it. I haven't really started my speech but I kind of have a topic and what I want to say about it. To be honest I don't really care about going to the next round. I am doing alright with my Independent Study, I have got most of it done but I have a little more to do. I think I'll need to do a bit over the holidays but not too much. 

Three big things-Pat in the Hat

I really enjoyed the production this term, I would rate our performance a 9.5/10 last night. I am really looking forward to speech next term and I believe I am in the running to get to the finals of the speech competition. I also noticed that in the debate yesterday that the most effective weapon of the good debaters was confusing the opponents team and using your sense of humour. I am really looking forward t o the coming term and all it brings with it.

Three Big Things_ArchieC

I would rate the performance for our production about a 9.5/10, the reason it didn't get ten because nothing is perfect but that absolutely deserved it. I found debating really fun cause it was fun to face off against the other kids in your class. The best tool for a debater is preparation because that is what the people who did well had. I am doing well with my speech since I've got my 1st draft in and It's going well. I am about half way through my presentation and about the same way through with my booklet. I think I need to do a bit on my independent study during the holidays to get it done by week two.

Three Big Things-Judd

I would rate last nights production very highly because it was a lot of fun, everybody chipped in at some point and every worked together on the night. In the production I played guitar in the band and was Peter Jackson in one of the advertisements (our production was like a tv show). Overall I think that the effort was worth the outcome because it was a lot of fun and it was something away from school work to do. Overall I rate the experience a 8.5 out of 10. After yesterday debating definitely presented itself as a possible activity for college.  In writing my speech I'm just up to my second draft of it and I am happy at where I'm at in terms of writing and presenting it. I'm very excited for the first year eight presentation because I enjoy watching them and finding out things about a topic that I usually wouldn't look into. I need to do quite a bit of work in the holidays but I feel that I have plenty of time work on it and polish it off. My topic has grown on me lots because I really enjoy learning about Shackleton and what he did to stay alive. Overall I'm very happy with where I'm at in terms of work going into the holidays.

Four Big Things-Mr T

Good morning boys.  It's a stagger to the finish line...congratulations, you are almost there.  You are completing a very busy term and I would like to challenge you to review four keys parts. 1. Last night was our production Grand Finale.  How would you rate it?  What did you contribute?  Did you enjoy the experience?  Was it worth the time and effort?  What was the most interesting thing you learnt from the process?  2. Yesterday we had our class debating day.  What was your overall impression of debating as a possible option for you at college?  What was the most important weapon in a good debater's armoury?  How well did you fare personally?  How much does preparation and teamwork count for? 3. Speech.  Where are you up to?  Do you feel you have some 'runs on the board'?  How much emphasis will you put on the writing side of things?  How determined are you to 'get through' to the next round?  Whose speech are you most looking forward to hearing (and why)?.  4. Independent Study.  Where are you up to and how are you feeling to be three weeks away from listening and watching the first yr 8 presentation?  How much do you think you need to do over the holidays just to keep up?  How much has your topic grown on you'?  What are you most looking forward to come presentation and booklet time?

The Must go on - Luke S

  Firstly, I think that production should be optional, because there are some boys who clearly do not want to be there and are just a pain for others. I speak from experience here, and I'm mainly referring to (most of) my security guards.
  Secondly, I am very happy with my character (Dick Tate) mainly because he's fun to play and I like his concept as a character.
  Lastly, definitely keep the approach of writing our scripts ourselves, because it shows not only our acting talent, but our creative talent as a syndicate.

The Show Must Go On... -Angoose A

I think that we are reasonably well prepared for the evening shows. I think that the enthusiasm of the rubiks cube dancers could be better. I am really exited to get on the stage in front of my parents and play my roll really well. I personally like my dance the best. The funniest part is when Tim/Robin Banks sneaks onto the stage. I think the audience will really enjoy the show. I think that staying quite when your not on the stage is a big 'work on' for us. I think that the seniour production should retain its mainly pupil-driven, organic, free-range approach. I think that everyone should have to do it.






HARRY POTTER EATS DEAD CHICKENS

The Must Go On!!!! - Jake Breslin

I think our production is at an average stage right now. It is good but some people need to learn their parts better. I think the Rubik Dancers could be better synchronised but other than that we are pretty polished besides for the lines. I enjoy when the security guards tackle Robin Banks because it kind of comes out of no where. I don't think the seniors should ever have a scripted show as it is a thing to look forward to and it sets us apart from the other syndicates. I think it should be compulsory for boys to be in the production because if we have more boys I think we can have more variety in the show.

The Show Must Go On - Atharva

Our production is going very well, although there are some ares that need polishing up. I think that it is pretty interesting that we have ad breaks, as they make it a little more realistic. I think that we should keep having pupil-driven, organic, free-range productions because then the seniors can add and senior-ize it into something that we are proud of. I think that it should be compulsory to everyone, so there are no dramas when someone chooses  not to take part in the production, only to come to one of the teachers asking for a role that has already been taken. Also, we wouldn't be able to call it a senior production if only a group of 20-30 boys are participating, not the entire syndicate.

The Show Must Go On-Tom A

I think that the senior production is going well. Although the Middle Schools production was good and had a great script, I think that the organic and "free range" attitude of the script written by the boys is irreplaceable and lends more strength to the whole performance. However I do think that the production should be optional.

 

The Show Must Go On is a lie like the cake! - Tim

I think we need to improve a lot with our production because other wise it will be blue (Bu dum chh)

Anyway yeah we need to improve more on our speaking roles because we are very badly timed with speaking. To be honest I'm totally fine with being on stage but other people I'm not too sure about. My favourite part of the production would probably when the security guards come rushing on. How will the audience react well I don't really know. But I definately think we should keep our production organic and free ranged. I don't think it should be compulsory to play a part in this.

The Show Must Go On! Ben_M

Our production is going well but still needs a bit of working on. I have really enjoyed doing the production and like the fact that it is 'organic'. I think that the best part of show is the bodyguard part at the end when they take Robin off stage. I also definitely agree with the production being compulsory. But that is all from me and without further ado "THE SHOW MUST GO ON!".

The Must Go On... - Matt

Good afternoon Mr Tait. I don't think that we are very well prepared but we are making a lot of progress towards having it ready to perform in front of people. I don't look forward to going on stage and I wish that I didn't have to. The production should not be compulsory for all boys.

Production-Lucca

Honestly speaking I think we are a behind with our production, it's looking good but there are still heaps of bits and pieces to fix up.  I think our dances/songs need to improve a bit and we need to get used to the big stage and big hall because we've been in the classroom and music room which are quiet compact, and the stage is massive and in some parts there is only three of us on stage so we'll have to get used to that. I'm looking forward to being on stage and having some fun. I think the funniest part is when robin steals wallets. I think we should keep our production not scripted because it gives people a chance to write and show their talent/skills. But I do think that if it's not scripted we need to start earlier. I think production should be compulsary but the students can choose if they want a big role or not (like our production). I think production is fun and that people should put themselves out there and have some fun.

The Show Must Go On... Pat in the Hat

I think we are quite prepared at the moment with our production but there are some other things that we need to work on e.g. transitioning onto the stage, we also need a much better behaved audience. The part I enjoyed most out of the production is when Dick Tate/Luke Sutton is escorted onto the stage by his body guards. I believe we should retain our  pupil driven production because it lowers the chance that people get a role which they don't want. I am really enjoying school at the moment and I look forward to seeing the final production that we do.

The Show Must Go On-Felix

I reckon it could be polished more if we started to rehearse the production without are scripts so we get a feel for what it will be like on the two nights.  I can't wait until I get up on stage, although the Rubik's cube dance needs to work on our choreography. The bit I enjoy it he most would either be the Panama dance or the general knowledge round. Our biggest work-on would be (like Mr Tait has stated a lot) the talking backstage.  I like how it is free range and how it is a learning opportunity. I reckon it should be compulsory.

The Must Go On... - Anish

I think I'm happy with my part, it is short,sharp but very good. I think the production is good, but I think the teachers did too many changes to the script, and everyone is annoyed. As I am an advertisement I don't have much to remember so I am all ready for the production. For my props I think I only need two cameras and we have already done one. For my costume I'm wearing normal clothes, so no problem there.

The Show Must Go On-K-Cox

WE ARE VEY WALL PRUPARED FRO TEH PODUUCTION, THES IAS AN EXAMPOLEE OAF WHATR OURE ORIGACNIAL SCROPTDS SHOI;D LOOK LIKIOLLLE. Now to seriosness I havbe had my joke, Take 2, Now I have had my joke and I really think that we are much more prepared than some of the parts for the middle school. Our Free range Script is a lot more fun than a script that has been made by someone else. And I balive the script wrighters have a very fun job. The way I feel about being on stage is, someone should come on with a cringe alert sign ASAP. I feel that the production should be compulsory but with the option to have an offstage job like lighting or tech.  

The Must Go On - Noah

I think that we are reasonably well prepared but we still have another week and a half until our production so I think that we will be ready. I am playing a small part as one of the rubiks dancers. To be honest I'm not really looking forward to doing our production but I think I'll be fine on the day. I think that the seniors should keep on writing their own script instead of getting a ready scripted show because it's much more "organic" or "free range". I think that a ll students should have to do a part in the production but I think you should be able to choose between on stage or backstage. 

The Show Must Go On... - Tom B

At the moment I think that the dances and a few speaking scenes do need quite a lot of improvements. I think that it is good for the senior boys to be able to create the script themselves. It has kind of been a tradition and I think that we should keep it that way. I think that the production would be a lot better if there were fewer people doing it and that you had to audition to get in. The reason for this is that if we add in the addition, only people you want to do it will get the part so that means that people will be giving 100% or something close to that. Overall I think that it would just be a better production. I think the main thing that we need to work on the most would be the dances, I still think that they are quite messy and just having a few sessions to work on them would make a big difference.

The Must Go On - Harry

Production in a week! I am still a bit irritated about how the script got edited and my entire scene was cut out, but it's not too bad in its edited form. We are a bit sloppy with timing for some parts, mostly the transitions between ads, but those are being ironed out.

I really like how the Seniors write their own scripts. It seems to turn out all sorts of interesting things, and is a lot better than a bought script. 

The Must Go On - William

I think that we are quite well prepared for the production next week. If we were performing to night, I don't think that we would be ready but with a little bit of hard work, we will get there. I am looking forward to the production, in which I am a security guard. My favourite part of the show is when we get to carry 'Robin Banks' off the stage. I think that the audience will react well to our show as it is homegrown, organic, and, most importantly, free-range. I think that it should be compulsory for all seniors to partake in, but only a small group of auditioned boys to perform speaking roles.

The Must Go On_ArchieC

I think that we are very well prepared for our production because even though we have a few work ons we still have a week to polish them up. I think that the crowd will really like it because it has a good mix of humour and it gets the message about perseverance through. I think that the production shouldn't be compulsory because it is a activity like T.O.M which is not every ones cup of tea. I think that we should keep the fact that we always write our script because it makes it original and 'organic'. I think that the production will be a success because of all the work that people have put in.

The Must Go On- James

I don't think that the Wellesley Senior School should have not a scripted production because it would be a very sad not being able to write the script because I had lots of fun writing it with some other boys .I think that we need to do a lot of work on our production because at the moment it is very Organic and Free Range. Overall I am really looking forward to next week so we can perform our masterpiece. 

The Must Go On- Finbar😂😂

In my opinion we are quite  prepared but we could do with improvement. Personally I don't really but do care about being on stage I don't care because I have a very small role but I do care because I am playing a female. I think the funniest part of the show is when the teachers  non-ironically using the song Darude Sandstorm. In my opinion production should be compulsory so even if not everyone is an amazing singer, actor or dancer they still have a chance to give it a shot as a small role. I think it should alternate between pupil driven and more professional productions so boys can try both.

The Show Must Go On... - Mr T

Good afternoon boys.  This time next week you will have completed the dress rehearsal for our school production and will be hours away from our first of two evening performances.  How well prepared are we right now?  How could it be polished?  How much do you personally look forward to being on stage?  What part of our 7/8 show do you enjoy the best?  What is the funniest part?  How do you think the audience will react (evening shows)?  What do you think is the biggest 'work on' for our 7/8 part of the production?  Do you think the seniors should have a scripted show or retain its mainly pupil-driven, organic, free-range approach?  Should it be compulsory for all boys to be involved or should it be a smaller group (perhaps 20-30 boys) who audition and choose it as one of many options?

The Great Debate - Luke S

Debating in this class is a very good way to occupy us, get some competitive spirit going, and, most importantly, teach us about debating. This class is one of the best for debating, due to our competitive spirit and our willingness to work more if we enjoy things. After looking through some of the class's blogs, I generally get the feeling that this class is enjoying debating. Overall, I think that debating will have a positive effect on this class.

nilserB ekaJ KZSOP - etbaD Taerg ehT

I love debating and think it will be a very fun thing to do in class as I love having discussions and arguments. I'm not sure if the three on three will be challenging or not but either way i think it will be fun to debate with my classmates. I liked the 1v1 and 2v2 debates as they were a good introduction to the subject. I won most of the 1v1s and 2v2s as they topic were generally in my favour. I agree with my teams moot which I think is a big advantage as you are generally more supportive with the argument. I think debating should be compulsory in all school and years because it is very fun and is a useful skill.

The Great Debate-Tom A

For debating I am in a team with Angus and Tim. Our moot point is that answering the mystery of the dead dog was good for Christopher Boone. We are on the Affirmative side of the debate. I am going third, to rebutt. I agree with our side of the debate. I like to argue and debating is like a more sophisticated form of arguing. I think the best thing about the 1-1's and 2-2's is that they give you a taste of what debating is really like. 

The Great Debate - Atharva

Debating! A wonderful time for 'getting your point across', also known as yelling at your opponent for the set amount of time. Not that I don't like it or anything else. My team's moot point is that Napoleon was not a great leader. For taking away the puppies and training them into vicious henchmen, then ordering them to drive Snowball out of the farm, I think calling him a not great leader is an understatement.

Debit Card Bating - Hugo

I am really looking forward to this years debating and cannot wait to see what other teams have made. It is quite fun to do debating and I like yelling at people doing very organised debates. The debates are quite entertaining. I am very happy with my debating moot because I actually agree with my moot.  Because of this  I have quite a lot of fuel for my debate. Generally I am really looking forward to the debates.

Debit Card Bating

The Great Tate Debate

My red hat thinking on debating is mainly positive because I really enjoy debating and I am happy with my debates moot (Animal Farms "Napoleon" is a good leader) we are the negative and we are me, Atharva and Hugo.

I really enjoyed the 1v1 and 2v2 debates because they kinda set the scene of what debating is. Deciding who went when was very easy for our team because Hugo wanted to go first I wanted to go second and Atharva wanted to go last. I actually don't fear my opponents because I think they are at an disadvantage.






Good morning boys.  Let the debating battles begin!  What is your 'red hat thinking' on what we are doing for debating in class?  What excites you about the prospect of going toe to toe with another team of three?  How did you enjoy the 1 v 1 mini and 2 v 2 mini debates?  How do you feel about the moot point that your team has to deal with?  Are you on the 'right' side in terms of your personal stance?  What speaking role do you have and how easy was it for your team to decide who does what?  How important do you think the writing and thinking process is to debating? What specific skills will you intend to 'bring to the table' on our debating day?  How important do you think the skill of debating is in the whole wider scheme of schooling?  What particular occupations go hand in hand with good debating skills?  Who do you most fear in your opposition and for what reasons? I

The Great Debate-Angoose

I agree with my side of the debate. I really love debating and am excited to face my friends and classmates. I think what excites me the most is that I can challenge my classmates. I think the great thing about 1-1s and 2-2s is that they are fun and simple. We decided who was who in about Ten seconds And I am very happy with my speaking part. Debating should be a reasonably large focus in schools. I fear Archie the most because he is an experienced year 8.

The Grate Debate about grates in the walls - TimTam

I think that we all should be able to debate because I think that everybody in 7/8T loves it. My red hat thinking about debating is definately on the good side. Debating is a real good thing in 7/8T because of how much fun it is to be allowed to argue.  Personally I loved to 1v1's and 2v2's because we got a good amount of time to debate and I thought that was brilliant. I feel quite good about what our moot point is because it is easy to describe and make a point about. I believe that what I am arguing about is correct (Charlie should have shot Hanley when he was crawling along) because he never would have been killed by the firing squad. I am hoping that next year we will be able to debate and maybe I could make it into the debate team even.

The Great Debate-Gray

I think that it will be good fun going up an other team of three, better that both the 2v2 and 1v1. I did enjoy the 1v1 and 2v2 but I think that I enjoy 2v2 better. I believe in our moot point and it would probably be my favorite out them all. I am 2nd speaker and it was simple to decide who. writing process is the most important thing in your debate and will impact greatly in your debate. Well, i'm generally untested at this so I don't really know. We will see on debating day. Well debating would be just not essential but quite important to having a good education. If you are good at debating you will probably be good in the army in getting your way for things. I think William will be the best debater on the other side because he has a very good wit and will respond well to our argument.